You Belong Here SPARKMAN WHARF Water plays a key role in every visit to Tampa Bay. At the south end of the Tampa Riverwalk, the area’s top chefs and best craft brewers come together in a waterfront entertainment space with great views and greater food. Sparkman Wharf breathes new life into the space once occupied by Channelside Bay Plaza. At its heart lies a spacious lawn that invites visitors to relax while overlooking the Garrison Channel. Visitors can enjoy live performances by local bands on ..read more

Trailblazers & Tastemakers TAMPA BAY'S WOMEN-OWNED BUSINESSES Join us as we spotlight the dynamic women who bring their visions to life and invite you to discover our destination's distinct flavors and treasures. From culinary adventures to unique offerings in local boutiques, Tampa Bay is home to establishments that enrich our region and offer unique experiences that embody the spirit of our community. Baton Roux Food Truck ? : Food Truck Alexis Williams, determined to bring the rich ..read more

WHY WE'RE CIGAR CITY 9 CIGAR TERMS TO KNOW Few things are as deeply rooted in Tampa Bay as the humble cigar. Since Cuban cigar baron Don Vicente Martinez Ybor opened his first factory here in 1886, hand-rolled cigars have been a staple of Tampa ..read more

11 THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT TAMPA BAY Tampa Bay has a long and colorful history (long for Florida, anyway), much of it is waiting for you to discover. Here are some things you probably never knew about Cigar City. 1. The cigar industry helped build Tampa Bay In the 1880s, Cuban cigar magnate Vicente Martinez Ybor moved his operations from Key West to a patch of scrub just east of downtown close to the port. Henry B. Plant’s newly arrived railroad carried Ybor’s cigars to market in New York and ..read more

Spot a Sea Cow WHEN TO SEE THE MANATEES OF TAMPA BAY Now's the perfect time to get in touch with Tampa Bay's cuddliest aquatic mammal, the West Indian Manatee. The hefty herbivores spend most of the spring and summer lounging about offshore in the Gulf of Mexico. But sure as the changing of the seasons, as soon as the days get shorter and the water temperatures begin to drop into the 70s -- (that's cold for Florida) -- the manatees make tracks upstream to springs and power plant outfalls where ..read more

Get your fix TAMPA BAY COFFEE Tampa Bay has gained a national reputation for its booming craft beer business. Lately, craft cocktails at places like Edison: Food+Drink Lab​ and Cru Cellars have begun to catch the public taste buds. But there's another drink that Tampa Bay takes pride in: coffee. Maybe it's our century-plus of Cuban history laced with cafe con leché, or it could be the all-nighters pulled by our growing tech start ups. Either way, locally roasted hand-crafted coffee is taking its ..read more

Vegan and Plant-Based Options for Foodies PLANT-BASED TAMPA BAY Tampa Bay's rich and diverse culture is shown not only in those who visit but also lives within our unique cuisine. These hot spots feature an array of plant-based options to satisfy any and all tastebuds. ? SOUTH TAMPA Florish 2307 S. Dale Mabry Hwy. Made fresh-to-order, Florish features mouthwatering hand-crafted pizzas and bowls, all 100% plant-based. From herb-roasted veggies to scrumptious baked goods, Florish is fit to ..read more

TAMPA BAY INSIDE THE HISTORY VAULT You don't need a passport to experience Tampa Bay's international influence that tells a unique story rich in culture and tradition. Tampa Bay has become a melting pot of cultures represented throughout the streets of historic Ybor City, paved along Perry Harvey Sr. Park, and sprinkled down the dazzling Hillsborough River. The Tampa Bay History Center 801 Water St, Tampa The Tampa Bay History Center is a fantastic way to discover and explore the history of ..read more

BUY ON THE DIP MARKETS AROUND TAMPA Tampa Bay’s monthly markets showcase an array of local vendors, artisans, and entrepreneurs. Discover an abundance of fresh produce, handmade crafts, unique artwork, vintage wares, and delicious food offerings. Immerse yourself in the destination, support Tampa Bay's small businesses, and uncover one-of-a-kind treasures. Sunset Market ​ Join Midtown Tampa every first Thursday of each month for its Sunset Market! Explore over 40 local vendors, enjoy live ..read more

CATCH SOME (SUN) RAYS THE GREAT OUTDOORS Tampa Bay has some of Florida's best city adventures, but it's also home to amazing outdoor experiences just minutes from downtown's glittering towers. Paddling, bird-watching, animal interactions -- they're all waiting for you to discover when you unlock Tampa Bay. Walk into the Woods Explore nature along the paths and boardwalks of major parks just minutes from the excitement of the city. Canoe Florida's only Class 2 rapids at Hillsborough River State ..read more